NEVILLE brothers Gary and Phil told Manchester United to make a move for Joao Cancelo ‘on repeated occasions’ before he joined Manchester City, according to reports.

Manchester United chose not to table a bid for the Portuguese full-back, who ended up signing for cross-town rivals Manchester City.

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Both Gary and Phil, ex-United full-backs, recommended Cancelo to former executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, according to The Telegraph.

It’s claimed the pair urged United to sign Cancelo on numerous occasions before City swooped in.

The 27-year-old joined from Juventus in 2019 for a reported £58million, and has played 106 times for City since making the move, winning a Premier League title and two League Cups so far.

In the meantime United have signed the likes of Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Alex Telles at full-back, both of whom have endured mixed fortunes at Old Trafford so far.

Wan-Bissaka has lost his starting spot to Diogo Dalot, while Telles is enjoying somewhat of a revival after being second choice to Luke Shaw under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Cancelo meanwhile has established himself as one of the first names on City’s team-sheet, having initially struggling to settle at the club.

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Being a regular in the squad is an especially impressive feat considering Pep Guardiola’s constant tinkering.

Cancelo’s versatility means he can be played at either left or right-back, and even in midfield.

His contributions on the pitch have been rewarded today with a new and improved contract at the Etihad.

The full-back has agreed improved terms from his original deal worth around £80,000-a-week ran up until 2025, but he has now signed on until 2027.

Speaking on penning an extension, Cancelo said: “This new contract means I now have complete focus on improving my game and winning more trophies with this team.

“City players have everything they need to reach their full potential, with amazing facilities, world-class teammates and an incredible manager who pushes us every single day.

“There is nowhere better to play football and it’s a pleasure to work here. I have so much I want to achieve before my career ends, and Manchester City offers me the best chance of fulfilling my ambitions.”

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